Mangalore Diocese News

Report : Meena Serrao Barboza
Photography : Veron Pinto

Bondel - Mangaluru, May 1 : St Lawrence Church witnessed the celebration of Sacrament of Confirmation and Parish Foundation Day on May 1st 2024. Bishop Emeritus Aloysius Paul D' Souza administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 86 children of the parish at 4.00 p.m.

Bishop Emeritus Aloysius Paul D' Souza along with Rev Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza - Parish Priest , V Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao - Rector Jeppu Seminary, Rev Fr Peter Gonsalves, Rev Fr Lancy D'Souza , Rev Fr Arul Betharaam, Rev Fr Ravikumar MSIJ concelebrated the Holy Mass of Confirmation.

In his homily, V Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao highlighted the significance of the Sacrament of Confirmation. He emphasised that the Holy Spirit gives them the increased ability to practice the faith of Christian life. He gave a call to all children to be the messengers of Jesus Christ and bear witness to Christ in every situation of their life. 86 children received the sacrament of confirmation on this day.

After the final blessing, a Felicitation programme was conducted by the Cultural committee, honoring the dedication and service of the Vice President, Secretary, ward Gurkar's, both past and present for their noble service and accomplishments. Achievers of the parish members Dr Preethi Keerthi D'Souza, Mr Stany Alvares, Miss Bianca Saldanha, Mr Aaren Fernandes , Anitha Pinto in various fields were honoured. The Cultural committee Vice President Dr Preethi Keerthi D'Souza compered the programme.

Bishop Emeritus Aloysius Paul D' Souza in his speech said, "As we commemorate the establishment of our parish, we are reminded of the countless blessings that God has bestowed upon us throughout the years. Our parish is not merely a physical building, but a spiritual home where we gather as one family to worship, pray, and support one another in our faith journey".

All had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable talents of the parish's 100 singers. Together, they graced with their voices as they performed the centenary song, commemorating a century of faith and unity within the community. Following this, they beautifully rendered the Laudate Dominum Hymn, filling the people's hearts with reverence and gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon them.

Expressing gratitude to the Bishop for officiating the Sacrament and conferring children, Rev. Fr. Andrew Leo D'Souza greeted the people present. A special thanks to Rev. Dr. Ronald Serrao for sharing God's word along with everyone else who helped get the kids ready for confirmation, he also praised Rev. Peter Gonsalves, Rev. Lancy D'Souza, Sr. Celestine and Jenny Ma'am, each member of the associations who contributed in making this a day to remember. He congratulated all the children for receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation.

A cultural programme was held at St. Lawrence English medium school grounds by the Cultural Committee following the felicitation programme. Mr Manoj Lewis & Mr Jeevan compered the programme. Parishioners presented amazing performances to highlight their talents. The parishioners and guests were later treated to a sumptuous meal prepared by the parishioners and the programme ended with housie housie with traditional Baila dancing.

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